By Yamikani Yapuwa:
President Peter Mutharika has reaffirmed his administrations commitment to ending hunger and improving access to education, calling for unity, patriotism, and collective effort among Malawians, regardless of tribe or political affiliation.
Speaking on Sunday when he graced the Mulhakho wa Alhomwe annual festival at Chonde in Mulanje, Mutharika said government has already secured 200,000 metric tonnes of maize from Zambia to ensure that no Malawian goes hungry in the coming months.
“The past six years have been difficult for our people; but hunger will soon be a thing of the past. All agreements have been concluded and maize will start arriving from Zambia soon,” said Mutharika.
The President expressed disappointment with some local farmers who were allegedly hoarding maize in anticipation for higher prices, saying such practices undermine national food security.
“It is utter nonsense to question why we are buying maize from outside when some of our own farmers are keeping maize to sell at inflated prices.
“Let us be patriotic and think about our fellow Malawians,” said Mutharika, adding that his government is working to ensure fertilizer availability for this years farming season.
Mutharika further announced that, starting January next year, school fees for both primary and secondary schools will be abolished, warning learners against absconding and indulging in drug and substance abuse.
“No parent will have an excuse not to send their children to school. Education is key to development, and we want discipline and hard work if Malawi is to move forward,” he said.
He also thanked Malawians for their continued support and the trust shown in him during the elections, stressing that his government will serve all citizens equally.
“I was not elected by one tribe, but by all Malawians. I will help every Malawian without looking at tribal lines. Our blood is the same despite where we come from,” he said.
The President appealed for patience and faith among citizens as his administration works to stabilize the economy.
“Things are difficult, but I promise to do my best and be fair to everyone. Let us have faith and love one another beyond tribal boundaries,” he said.
Earlier, Paramount Chief Kaduya commended the theme Enduring spirit, overcoming challenges together saying it reflects the resilience Malawians have shown in the face of disasters and hardship.
“We have endured cyclones, hunger and diseases, but unity has kept us going. Let us continue holding hands especially in facing challenges brought by climate change,” she said, urging the youth to take education seriously for the countrys progress.
Mulhakho wa Alhomwe Organising Committee Chairperson Felix Tambulansi thanked the President for his consistent presence at the event and his counsel in promoting peace and unity among Malawians.
“We are grateful to the President for always standing with us and reminding us to remain united as one people,” he said.
Mulhakho wa Alhomwe Board Chairperson, Muchanakwaye Mpuluka, cautioned critics to stop linking the grouping to any political party saying that it is cultural not political.
“Mulhakho wa Alhomwe is not a political movement. Its founding members were not chosen based on party lines. No government resources have been used for this event; support has come from the business community both within and outside Malawi,” said Mpuluka.
He hailed the spirit of unity which has been demonstrated at the festival, as witnessed by the attendance of Manganja chiefs, Inkosi Gomani, Inkosi Mbelwa V and representatives of Gawa Undi.
The Mulhakho wa Alhomwe Festival, established to promote cultural heritage, language, and unity among the Lhomwe people, drew thousands from across the country and neighboring Mozambique.
